Russia: Rouble strengthens
The rouble appreciated on Friday, driven by an increase in oil prices, expectations that foreign investors will be attracted by high Russian interest rates and that exporters will soon convert hard currency into roubles. (Source: CNBC)

Brazil:Brazil’s worst drought in history prompts rationing warning
More than four million people have been affected by rationing and rolling power cuts as this tropical nation discovers it can no longer rely on once abundant water supplies in a period of rising temperatures and diminishing rainfall. (Source: Guardian)